Saint Veronica

Saint Veronica, also called Berenike, is remembered in Christian tradition as a widow of Jerusalem who lived in the first century. Though her story is not found in the Gospels, ancient devotion cherishes her as a compassionate disciple who stepped forward on the road to Calvary when others drew back. Moved by love and reverence, she offered Jesus her veil so He might wipe His bloodied, suffering face as He carried the Cross. When He returned it, His features were said to be miraculously impressed upon the cloth, a “true image” treasured in the Church’s memory as the Veil of Veronica. Her merciful act is honored in the Sixth Station of the Cross, inviting the faithful to console Christ in His Passion and to make reparation for sins that wound His Holy Face. Because of the veil and its image, she is venerated as a patron of photographers and of those who clean and launder. Saint Veronica is celebrated on February 4.